The Artist: Steven Castro

Steven Castro is a fine art landscape photographer based on the Central California Coast whose work has earned numerous awards in photographic competitions.

His start in photography began 30 years ago capturing surf action in Santa Cruz, with many of his photographs appearing in national and regional publications. Today Steven's photography focuses on the natural world, with a particular emphasis on California landscapes.

"While many think of photographs as an image 'of ' an object or scene, I feel I have a responsibility to make expressive prints 'about' what has been presented to me." says Steven, "I also tend to find myself returning to my favorite spots many times, and each time nature reveals some new intimate detail."

Many are acquainted with Steven for his work from the International Juried Photography Competition, "The Magic of Point Lobos," hosted by the Carmel Art Institute. His image, Old Veteran was awarded 1st Place in the 2012 exhibition.

The Work: Prints and Framing

Examples of the print options from left to right (Luster Print, Float Mount and Framed Float Mount on Metal)

For mounting, a favorite is the "Ready to Hang" Float Mounting. The printed image is tacked to a wood substrate backing. The tacked print is then covered with a tough, durable, transparent UV cut film laminate material. The panels edges are then beveled with a black edging.

Float Mounting provides a contemporary look and the non-glare quality of the laminate allows for a wonderful 180 degree viewing experience that is simply not available with glass glazed images. With the tough clear UV protective surface, grease, dust and moisture wipe right off.

Framed Float Mount on Metal:

This process represents a new art medium for preserving photos by infusing dyes directly into specially coated aluminum sheets. The image will take on a magical luminescence. The metal print is then placed in a black wedged float mount frame.